Black obsidian is a glass-like rock that forms from volcanic lava cooling quickly. In metaphysical circles, it has the aura of absolute mystery. Its energy draws you in softly, but very deeply, which makes the presence of black obsidian powerful in many ways. It is commonly used for protection, healing, truth-telling, and feng shui.

Physical Uses

Being born out of lava, black obsidian has the potent energy of the interaction of several raw elements, including fire, earth, and water. It's categorized as volcanic glass and is very hard and smooth, but it can have incredibly sharp edges.

Obsidian has been used throughout history for various tools, such as knives and arrows. It has even been experimented with for surgical scalpel blades, and in some cases it's actually sharper than a metal blade.

Healing

Black obsidian crystal balls and polished mirrors are used in various cultures for deep healing purposes. They're believed to help a person become more grounded, focused, and clear in all practical matters. They also can assist in developing razor-like mental abilities and the power of discernment.

Because black obsidian expresses a clear energy of truth without taking any sides, it can be useful for those who tend to react emotionally to people and events. A piece of black obsidian jewelry—be it a ring or a bracelet—can help anchor erratic energies, bring more balance to one's life, and clear one's mind of fears and distractions.

Truth-Telling

Also called the stone of truth, black obsidian is supposed to reveal mysteries—both about the inner world of the person working with the obsidian, as well as the inner workings of the cosmos at large. The sharpness of black obsidian is also expressed as a metaphysical property. This powerful stone can help cut through illusions, lies, fearful facades, and blockages.

The amount of information black obsidian can uncover—along with the intensity of this truthful energy—can be overwhelming. The perfection of its black color is believed to reveal the darkness that blocks the light in any situation. This is why black obsidian is best used with much respect and care.

Protection

Another facet of black obsidian is its ability to draw in negative energy, thus protecting the wearer or the surroundings in which it is placed. As such, black obsidian is used as protection in various body adornments and in many areas of the home.

Feng Shui Uses

In feng shui, black obsidian is an excellent cure for the north bagua area—the area connected to the energy of one's career and path in life. Black obsidian not only provides the energy of the water feng shui element needed in the north area, but it also offers protection and clears obstacles in one's life path.

You can put out a bowl of tumbled black obsidian stones or a small black obsidian sphere. There are also many feng shui carvings made of obsidian. Choose only the symbols you like and can associate with.

Because black obsidian is believed to draw in negative energy, cleanse it regularly and take good care of its physical surroundings. Do not place black obsidian on the floor or anywhere else where it can get neglected.